Conductor, Music Director
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in instructing instrumentalists and performers to achieve rendition required; and in leading bands, orchestras and choirs during rehearsals and performances, in auditioning and selecting instrumental and vocal performers, and in supervising and co-ordinating activities of studio and company personnel
Interest in synthesizing information to control balance, rhythm, dynamics and entries of instruments and voices to create interpretation of scores; and in planning and organizing musical productions, and in assigning parts to performers so the meaning and feeling of interpreted scores are expressed
Interest in precision working to memorize musical scores; and in selecting music to accommodate talents of groups, and in positioning performers to obtain balance and harmony of instruments and voices
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
In general, orchestra and band conductors:
They also may:
Conductors usually schedule rehearsals, allowing sufficient time for the preparation of new works as well as reviewing the standard repertoire. The principal conductor or guest conductor meets separately with each soloist well in advance of a performance. They also work closely with concertmasters (principal solo violinists) in preparing for rehearsals.
A conductor's reputation is based largely on presenting a strong, dynamic presence as a leader. This comes from exceptional talent (most conductors are outstanding performers themselves), a unique style and the ability to communicate with musicians individually and collectively.
Some conductors hold the additional role of music director of an orchestra or musical group. Music directors make artistic decisions for the group including choosing the repertoire and guest artists for the upcoming season.
Symphony orchestras often have a general manager who works closely with the music director or conductor to handle financial matters. Overseeing the activities of the music director and general manager is a board of directors. In larger organizations, the management team also includes an artistic administrator who works closely with the conductor or music director and management and is usually a member of negotiating teams.
Guest conducting often involves a considerable amount of travelling. It may include conducting singers as well as players. Sometimes, orchestra conductors conduct several hundred performers at one time including instrumentalists, choirs and soloists.
Orchestra and band conductors need the following characteristics:
They should enjoy taking charge and controlling situations, and developing innovative approaches.
Orchestra and band conductors must have a thorough knowledge of music, beginning with the study of an instrument (usually, piano). In general, they need:
Conductors also may have:
Formal academic training for conductors often starts with a four year bachelor's degree in music. Most conductors then continue their music education with a master's degree or even a doctoral degree in music or study at a music conservatory. Admission to a graduate degree program generally requires an acceptable average in a related bachelor's degree program.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Those wishing to teach music and conduct groups in schools may take any of the following education routes:
Aspiring conductors should observe well known conductors in action. Some established conductors will allow conducting students to attend and observe working rehearsals. It may be possible for a student interested in conducting to assist a teacher or principal conductor with a youth orchestra or school band.
Certification is not required, as there is currently no legislation regulating this occupation.
There are many more conductors than orchestras and bands in Canada. Young conductors may start out by working with community and youth orchestras, as repetiteurs for opera ensembles or in staff, rehearsal or conductor-in-residence positions.
Conductors may work with:
School band or orchestra conductors may be expected to teach music classes as well as direct the school band or orchestra.
Conductors may gain recognition and visibility by:
Many conductors must work in other music related areas to make a living while they study and gain experience. This may include performing, teaching, composing or arranging.
Orchestra and band conductors are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5132: Conductors, Composers and Arrangers. In Alberta, 89% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Salaries for school band conductors who have a degree and a teaching certificate are based on the individual's qualifications and experience (for more information, see the Secondary School Teacher occupational profile). Community orchestras may pay conductors minimal salaries or token honorariums.
Fees and salaries for orchestra conductors generally are negotiated separately for each contract. In smaller orchestras, they can range significantly.
Orchestra/band conductors are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5132: Conductors, composers and arrangers.
According to the 2015 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey, Albertans in the Conductors, composers and arrangers occupational group earned on average from $29.46 to $33.20 an hour. The overall average was $32.85 an hour. More recent data is not available.
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Updated May 17, 2009. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.